Suggestions for South America Tour 2014-2015

I've never been to South America before and I was wondering what are the best tour to pick?
I'm just planning my tours and do heaps of research at the moment, anyone could suggest month is the best go to South America:)?

I am doing some tours next year in South America because I travel alone to and Contiki is just the best/ safest way to do it. I am doing Ecuador & Galapagos Island Hopper tour 2nd – 12th Feb and The Adventurer after that with Carnival inbetween :)
Please contact me on here or add me on Facebook ( Rikki Yeowart )

Looks like I’m in the same boat as you guys! First time travelling overseas by myself as I’m only 18! I’m going over to SA for the Adventurer (start Lima) on the 8th May, and I really have no idea what I’m doing! Haha :/